Debt Collection Rights
Dealing with debt collectors can at times be an awful ordeal. As such, it is important that you are aware of your debt collection rights which are provided for by law and seek to protect you from any mistreatment. These laws are provided for by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act FDCPA which defines the conduct of both the person owing the debt and the debt collector. Your debt collection rights outline the freedoms you enjoy in the whole process and you can seek redress should you feel any of them has been infringed by the debt collector. There are many of them but the following are some of the most important.
If you had not been made aware by your creditor that you will meet the cost of collecting the debt, then you have a right not to pay the collection fees. Your creditor should inform you prior to sending the debt collector and at the time when you are taking the debt that you will have to meet the cost of debt collection. This should be captured in the contract. In addition to this will be your right not to pay for additional fee due to an overdue debt unless it was captured in the contract.
Another of your debt collection rights is not to be contacted at odd hours like before 8.00 am and after 9.00 pm. This is viewed as disturbance which is stressful and denies you peace of mind. This can only happen if you instruct the debt collector to do so. You also have the right not to have your debt discussed to other people like friends and employer. The debt collector can only contact another person to locate you and not more than once unless the person says it is alright. Even then, they cannot discuss information about your debt.
Your debt collection rights also protect you from any form of harassment including threats, use of obscene language and any harassment to any member of your family. Another important part of the debt collection rights is your right of proof. You deserve evidence in written form serving as evidence that you owe the said creditor the demanded amount. Debt collection rights are for your protection and you should understand.
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